A nurse is assisting with the care of a client 2 hr postoperative following a cardiac catheterization. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Check the client's distal pulses in both legs.
Keep the client overnight.
Keep the client on bed rest for 12 hr.
Restrict the client's oral fluids.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Check the client's distal pulses in both legs:
Checking the client's distal pulses in both legs is crucial to ensure that there is adequate blood flow and no signs of arterial occlusion or complications from the catheterization. This is an important assessment to detect potential vascular complications, such as a hematoma or an arterial blockage.
B. Keep the client overnight:
Keeping the client overnight is not typically required for all cardiac catheterization procedures. The need for an overnight stay depends on the individual case and any complications or comorbidities. Routine catheterizations often allow for discharge on the same day with appropriate monitoring.
C. Keep the client on bed rest for 12 hr:
Keeping the client on bed rest for 12 hours is excessive. Typically, bed rest is required for 2 to 6 hours following the procedure to allow the puncture site to stabilize and reduce the risk of bleeding. The exact duration of bed rest depends on the approach used and the patient's condition.
D. Restrict the client's oral fluids:
Restricting the client's oral fluids is generally not appropriate. In fact, increasing fluid intake is often encouraged to help flush out the contrast dye used during the procedure and to prevent renal complications. Monitoring for fluid balance is important, but outright restriction is not typically indicated unless there is a specific medical reason.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Root cause analysis:
Root cause analysis is a method used to identify the underlying causes of adverse events or errors. While it is important for quality improvement and risk management, it does not specifically involve using research and scientific data to guide clinical decision-making in client care.
B. Evidence-based practice:
Evidence-based practice (EBP) involves integrating the best available evidence from research studies with clinical expertise and patient preferences to guide decision-making in client care. By utilizing research and scientific data, nurses can identify effective interventions and strategies to improve client outcomes.
C. Benchmarking:
Benchmarking involves comparing performance metrics or outcomes against standards or best practices. While benchmarking can inform quality improvement efforts, it does not directly involve using research and scientific data to guide clinical decision-making.
D. Standardization:
Standardization involves implementing consistent processes or protocols to improve quality and safety. While standardization is important for ensuring consistency in care delivery, it does not necessarily rely on research and scientific data to inform clinical decision-making as evidence-based practice does.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A patient with coronary artery disease (CAD) who reports chest pain radiating to the jaw: This patient should be evaluated first. Chest pain radiating to the jaw can be a sign of a heart attack, which is a life-threatening condition. Immediate medical attention is required to prevent further damage to the heart muscle.
B. A patient with venous insufficiency with 2+ pitting edema: While this patient’s condition needs to be addressed, it is not as immediately life-threatening as a potential heart attack. Venous insufficiency and edema can lead to discomfort and complications if left untreated, but these complications are typically not immediate.
C. A patient receiving enoxaparin (Lovenox) for experiencing an MI 3 days ago: This patient is already receiving treatment for their condition. While they should be monitored for side effects of the medication and signs of further cardiac issues, they are not the highest priority based on the information given.
D. A patient with peripheral artery disease (PAD) with a diminished pulse: While a diminished pulse can indicate poor blood flow, which can lead to complications such as tissue damage and non-healing wounds, it is not as immediately life-threatening as a potential heart attack. This patient should be evaluated, but they are not the highest priority based on the information given.
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